Smartphones do all sorts of amazing things that make them useful in a driving situation, but their interfaces usually aren't optimized for operation at 65 mph. The screens are too small, the buttons are too hard to hit at arm's length, and the design of their applications often requires a user's full attention to read messages or input queries for search. Making matters worse, touching a phone (even one in a cradle) is of questionable legality in many areas. Vlingo Voice with InCar for Android aims to address all of these issues in one application.

Vlingo Voice is available for the Android, iPhone, and BlackBerry platforms, all of which include optimized interfaces for in-car operation, voice command for many phone functions, and a feature called SafeReader that reads text messages and e-mails aloud. However, the Android version has a unique feature called Vlingo InCar that enables you to send text messages, initiate calls, and begin navigation with little more than the sound of your voice. Simply say, "Hey Vlingo," and the app springs into action.

Check out our hands-on with Vlingo InCar in the episode of Tap That App at the top of this post.

About the author

Antuan Goodwin gained most of his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and performance to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable. Email Antuan, follow him on Twitter, or like him on Facebook.
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